By Sedrick Bolton III November 17, 2022
RIVERDALE In back-to-back games, Riverdale finds themselves having another close one. With only seconds on the game clock, the Raiders miss the three-pointer that would force overtime and loses to East Coweta 57-54.
The Indians had active hands in the first quarter, which led to scoring in transition. They got out to an early 19-5 lead as they kept going inside and finishing around the rim.
Senior Austen Colton of the Indians lead the charge with his takes to basketball and perimeter scoring.
As the game progressed, Riverdale started to build a rhythm offensive. It all started with junior Masiah Jones of the Raiders. His scoring from all three levels and blocks on the defensive end kept the game in reach for the team.
From being down 14 in the first, Riverdale takes the lead with a three by senior Hakeem Iginla in the third. The Raiders shooting from beyond the arc helped them in their comeback.
"We started to make some shots and most importantly we limited their shots," said Riverdale's Head Coach Ty Townsend. "We started to actually rebound which was a huge point we focused on."
But East Coweta did not let up and took back the lead with senior Brian Gillespie scoring inside and a three sophomore Carby Martin. The Indians led 47-44 going into the final period.
Both teams went at each other at the start of the fourth, but Riverdale fought back a little harder. With some trips to the free throw line, the Raiders tied the score at 52 with four minutes left to play.
But Colton hits a much needed three to give his team the lead. He followed with a nifty pocket pass to a cutting Gillespie for the up-and-under layup.
The Raiders scored and got multiple stops on the defensive end, but they could not rebound the ball. With East Coweta retaining the possession, Riverdale had to play the foul game trailing 57-54.
With the Indians missing the free throw, the Raiders grab the rebound and calls timeout. With 13 seconds left on the clock, they work it down get a look for junior Kamon Canty for the three. But Canty misses, giving the Indians the victory.
After the game, Coach Townsend talked about what the team will work on heading into their next game.
"Rebounding, and once again our Achilles heel has been free throws," said Coach Townsend. "We're 7/14 from the free throw line tonight...so that's something we have to got to improve on."
The Raiders travel to Therrell to face an 1-1 Panthers' team November 18.
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